2012+PAGE+v.+ROTTERDAM

Maura Thompson Jennifer Carmack Ashley Collins Page v. Rotterdam-Mohonasen Central School District United States Supreme Court Argued June 3, 1981 John Page, father of fifth grader Eric Page, requested Herman L. Bradt Elementary School authorities to let him view his son’s academic records to determine his progress in school. The School denied the requests which were made both orally and in writing, per a written statement from Eric’s mother denying Mr. John Page permission to see his son’s records or have any involvement with his son’s education. Eric was living with his mother at the time and his parents were separated. The Page’s had an agreement that Ms. Page would have custody of Eric with visitation rights to the father. The Court ruled in favor of Mr. Page, stating that according to The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, it is allowed by either parent, inspection of their child’s student records, regardless of custody rights given to either of those parents, unless a legal document is proposed that forbids one of the parents access to the child’s records. In this case there was no document forbidding Mr. Page the right to see his son’s records. Mr. Page was not trying to change custodial guidelines, as he was just a concerned parent for his son’s education. Therefore, the Court ruled that Mr. Page was permitted to see his son’s records and educational records should be made available to parents in every school and of every child ”fortunate enough to have two parents interested in his welfare.” There is a very fine line in dealing with confidentiality, especially in today’s society where single parenting is very common. All parents should have the ability to view any grades belonging to their child. As educators it’s our job to make sure that we do our due diligence and find out who is the active parent in our student’s lives. Some parents have legal documentation that states the school should not release any information to the other parent, do to restraining orders etc. But, unless this documentation is provided we have to present all information to both parents.
 * Background:**
 * Decision/Rationale:**
 * Implications:**

Quiz Question: The Court ruled in favor of the petitioner, Mr. Page, in the case Page v. Rotterdam because:
 * 1) A. His wife wrote a letter stating that he was allowed to see their son’s records
 * 2) B. He was trying to change custodial guidelines of their separation agreement
 * 3) C. He was the only parent interested in the educational progress of his son
 * 4) D. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act says that both parents, regardless of marital status are allowed to view the student records of their children